Reported / Citable
Background
Juan Valderrabano Cabrera appeared with counsel before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew H. Watters for a felony guilty-plea proceeding. The case had been referred under a general order for the magistrate judge to take the plea.
After receiving Rule 11 admonishments, Cabrera pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to Count One of the indictment, charging illegal reentry into the United States. He consented to the magistrate judge’s taking of the plea, while sentencing remained with the presiding district judge.
The Court’s Holding
Judge Watters found that Cabrera understood the charge, potential penalties, and his constitutional and statutory rights; that he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights; and that he was competent to plead guilty.
The magistrate judge also found a sufficient factual basis for the plea and found Cabrera guilty of the charged offense. The report and recommendation advises Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses to accept the guilty plea and enter a judgment of guilt, with sentencing to follow before the district judge.
Key Takeaways
- The magistrate judge recommended acceptance of Cabrera’s guilty plea to illegal reentry.
- Cabrera entered the plea without a plea agreement after Rule 11 admonishments.
- Parties have 14 days to object; failure to object may limit district-court review and appellate challenges.
Why It Matters
The decision is a report and recommendation, not the district court’s final acceptance of the plea or a sentencing decision. Unless timely objections alter the result, the case will proceed to the district judge for acceptance of the plea and sentencing.